NOVEL WEB Chapter 80: The persuasiveness of the investigation report!
Li Lizhi’s remark left Empress Zhangsun feeling morally unsettled. After a brief silence, she inquired, “What does ‘close relatives’ specifically mean?”
Empress Zhangsun had a vague understanding but lacked clarity on the details of close relatives. Li Lizhi suggested, “Let’s clarify the meaning of close relatives first.”
“Close relatives include direct and collateral blood relatives within three generations,” Li Lizhi recalled. Empress Zhangsun quickly grasped the implication – Li Lizhi and Zhangsun Chong were indeed close relatives by marriage.
“This isn’t uncommon. Why are you bringing this up now?” Empress Zhangsun questioned.
“Advice from a knowledgeable source,” Li Lizhi replied.
Empress Zhangsun nodded, unsurprised. She anticipated that only someone like Gao Ren would be involved.
Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Empress Zhangsun became concerned, not just for her daughter but also for herself.
Li Lizhi, sensing her mother’s unease, presented a prepared investigation report. “Mother, take a look. I had my doubts, but after investigating…”
Empress Zhangsun, now holding the report, asked, “Is it this serious?”
Li Lizhi affirmed, “This was investigated yesterday. It’s authentic. You can verify it yourself.”
After a brief review, Empress Zhangsun acknowledged the gravity of the situation. “Is it this severe?”
Li Lizhi nodded, “I had it checked yesterday. It’s genuine. You can double-check if you want.”
Empress Zhangsun reassured, “I’ll look into it. Rest assured, I’ll provide a satisfactory response. You can go back for now.”
Li Lizhi bowed, “I take my leave.”
Li Lizhi didn’t explicitly express her unwillingness to marry Zhangsun Chong throughout the conversation. However, her actions silently conveyed her reluctance. Recognizing the significance of the matter, Li Lizhi refrained from saying more. The ball was now in Empress Zhangsun’s court.
Empress Zhangsun, supportive of Li Lizhi and Zhangsun Chong’s union, also had Li Shimin’s approval. Zhangsun Chong and Zhangsun Wuji became even more supportive.
Li Lizhi is the favored princess in every aspect. Marrying Li Lizhi will further solidify the Zhangsun family’s position. This is Zhangsun Wuji’s most desired outcome. With Zhangsun Wuji present, the Zhangsun family’s status is secure, but he must consider its future. Aligning with the royal family is a wise choice.
Empress Zhangsun, watching Li Lizhi leave, reviewed the investigation report and said, “Arrange for an immediate inquiry. The sooner, the better…”
Empress Zhangsun decided to conduct her investigation for added credibility when approaching Li Shimin.
“Yes, Your Majesty!” Xiu responded.
…
In Qianxiang Palace, Noble Consort Wei sat at the dressing table, admiring herself in a mirror bought for a substantial sum. The more she looked, the more satisfied she became.
“Wei Yao!”
“Your Majesty, I’m here!”
“How is your makeup technique progressing?” Nobel Consort Wei inquired about makeup skills.
Whether Noble Consort Wei can apply makeup is irrelevant. Wei Yao must!
Wei Yao quickly replied, “I may not match Her Royal Highness yet, but I’m not far off.”
To be Noble Consort Wei’s maid, Wei Yao must be skillful and clever.
One glance is usually sufficient.
Noble Consort Wei nodded satisfactorily, “It’s a fantastic product. I can’t imagine my life without cosmetics now!”
Wei Yao agreed with a nod.
Smiling, Wei Yao suggested, “Your Majesty, the weather is lovely. Why not go for a stroll and visit His Majesty?”
Noble Consort Wei, realizing the opportunity, nodded, “That’s a good idea. Fetch the outfit I’ve been keeping!”